Integrative systems biology in insomnia: Bridging traditional Chinese medicine and modern science

Abstract

This article is interested in the applications and technological innovations of systems biology to insomnia research within an integrative framework of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern science. Insomnia, a common sleep disorder, is a significant global health threat and has emerged as an increasing public health concern. Systems biology, based on multi-omics technologies like genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, enables the explanation of the complex mechanisms of insomnia in an integrative manner. This review considers the possibility of integrating TCM theories with systems biology for identifying new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The advances such as genome-wide association studies and neurobiological observations are illuminating the pathophysiology of insomnia, which can be integrated with TCM concepts. Network pharmacology and multi-layered regulatory network modeling are highlighted as beneficial in clarifying the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in insomnia. The study emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine and envisions the convergence of TCM and contemporary scientific approaches in the future for better treatment of insomnia.